The Lagos State Government is partnering with the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft to carry out a major environmental clean-up operation in Apapa area of Lagos.
EpeInsights reports that his joint effort is aimed at restoring order, promoting environmental sustainability and reclaiming one of the city’s most affected zones.
The initiative was announced on Friday during a courtesy visit by Navy Commodore, Paul Ponfa Nimmyel and his team to the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, at the government secretariat in Alausa.
According to Wahab, Apapa was once a prestigious and orderly part of Lagos, but has in recent years deteriorated into an area riddled with environmental violations, poor sanitation, and illegal activity.
He emphasized that it is time for both government and local stakeholders to take ownership of the area and work toward meaningful restoration.
Wahab praised the Nigerian Navy for taking the lead in caring for the Apapa ecosystem and confirmed the government’s full support for the operation.
He also noted that Lagos environmental task forces, including the KAI/LAGESC squad and EFAG team, will be actively involved. These agencies will clean up the area, clear blocked drains, and help remove illegal occupants under the Apapa bridge.
The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) will also provide trucks and logistical support to remove the waste.
Following the cleanup, the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) is expected to inspect the site and begin landscaping work to ensure long-term sustainability.
Wahab highlighted the importance of enforcement in achieving cleaner and more livable environments, stating that laws are meaningless without implementation.
He assured the Navy command that the state would stand firmly behind efforts to restore the Apapa-Marine Beach corridor.
In his remarks, Commodore Nimmyel expressed gratitude for the state’s cooperation and revealed that the cleanup is scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2025, between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m.
The event is part of activities marking the 69th anniversary of NNS Beecroft. He said the Navy will remove waste, displace hoodlums and touts, and coordinate with other agencies to ensure the area is restored.
He added that following the exercise, the Navy will invite stakeholders in the Apapa and Ajegunle areas to join the larger goal of keeping the environment clean and secure.
The meeting was also attended by top officials from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, including Dr. Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Environmental Services, and Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, Permanent Secretary for Drainage Services, along with heads of relevant agencies.
